Goalkeeper Rhys Evans put his penalty shoot-out heroics down practice in training.

Evans saved two Gillingham spot kicks last night as Southend progressed to Round Two of the Johnstone's Paint Trophy.

And the 28-year-old was pleased to have helped secured the Blues place in the next stage of the competition.

"I have saved a few penalties over the years but I was talking to the goalkeeping coach and saying I have lost my way with them over the past few years," Evans told Blues Player following the win.

"We did some work on it in training and that has obviously paid off.

"It wasn't my greatest performance but considering I haven't played much football I will take that."

Evans was handed his Southend debut after starting the season as second choice to Glenn Morris.

And the former Bradford City custodian admitted he was disappointed not to have been handed the number one jersey.

"I was disappointed not to start the season so I was looking to impress," he said.

"I thought I had done enough in pre-season but I respect the managers' decision.

"Glenn has done well so I can't do anymore than take an opportunity when it comes along and hopefully I did that a little bit last night."